Did Africa Cup of Nations Spoil Ba's Season?

Last updated : 17 April 2012 By Footy Mad - Editor

ry

However, since returning from Africa Cup of Nations duty with Senegal and the signing of compatriot Papiss Cisse, the 26-year-old has managed just one goal in 10 outings.

There can be various arguments put forward: Cisse is seen as the centre-forward now and Ba is out on the left; the other Premiership defenders have come alive to his style of play; and ALL strikers do go through a bad spell.

But that bubbly confidence seems to be on the back-burner, and he has not looked the same player since his return from the Africa Cup of Nations.

Demba Ba: "I work in order to score goals, but also so Papiss can score.

"The coach told me he would put me on the left. And for the team I thought, 'Let's do it'.

"Also, I know the qualities of Papiss as a finisher. It does not bother me at all.

"As a striker you like to be in the striking position but now the coach has made a decision. He has decided for Papiss to be there.

"I do what I have to do to balance the formation for the good of the team. If I can be in the finishing area I do everything to be there, if I cannot, we do the work for Papiss.

"I like to be up front but lately the coach has decided to play with three strikers and I do not mind playing on the side.

"If I score, that's great, but if I don't score there is someone else who does."